Epidermal cell turnover pathway

The **epidermal cell turnover pathway** describes the multi-step, highly regulated process by which the skin's outermost layer (epidermis) is continually renewed. Stem cells in the basal layer divide to provide new keratinocytes, which migrate upward, differentiate into specialized forms, and are eventually shed from the surface. This process is controlled by a network of signaling pathways (including Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, EGF, and TGFβ), structural proteins, and transcriptional regulators. Dysregulation of this pathway leads to a range of pathologies, from psoriasis (excessive proliferation) to defects in wound healing and skin cancers.

Other names

Epidermal renewalSkin cell turnoverEpidermal regenerationEpidermal homeostasis

Modulation of signaling pathways (e.g., Wnt, Notch, EGFR, Hedgehog) to alter proliferation or differentiation Induction of apoptosis (e.g., retinoids in acne treatment) Anti-inflammatory effects (e.g., corticosteroids)